Toyota to install reinforcement bar to fix sticky pedal problem

TORONTO - Toyota Canada has unveiled its solution to the sticky pedal problem that has been blamed for unwanted acceleration in some vehicles and resulted in a massive recall.

The company said Monday it will install a steel reinforcement bar to fix the sticky pedal problem. Dealers are expected to begin repairs soon after they have the parts, expected to be Thursday or Friday.

Toyota has recalled more than 2.3 million vehicles in the United States and 270,000 in Canada because of the problem. The recall has also spread to other countries, with about 4.2 million Toyota vehicles affected worldwide.

Production at two Toyota manufacturing facilities in southwestern Ontario will be halted this week because of the recall, which has been the biggest ever for the Japanese car and truck maker.

Toyota Canada says it will install reinforcement bars to eliminate excess friction that can cause the accelerator pedal to stick and the vehicle to go too fast.

A Toyota Canada spokesman said Monday that the company has been working since the recall was announced Jan. 21 to confirm the nature of the problem and develop a solution that would be durable and easy to roll out.

"So, starting this week we're going to be providing instruction to all of our dealers on how to modify pedals in order to reduce the pressure on the friction elements inside the accelerator pedal and eliminate the sticky pedal condition," Toyota Canada managing director Stephen Beatty said on CTV's "Canada AM."

He said Toyota expects repairs can begin by the end of the week.

"It's our understanding that many of the dealers will be working extended hours in order to make sure that they can take care of our customers," Beatty added.

Further details are expected after Toyota officials hold a news conference.

Eight vehicle models made over the past several years have been affected by the recall, which is the biggest in Toyota's history.